Health Hack with @amysfitnessandnutrition
Who just did a double take?
I was sceptical too, so let’s talk about this magic pasta.
Konjac noodles (or pasta) are a unique food, that comes from the root of the konjac plant. They are relatively new to the New Zealand market but can now be found in most supermarkets.
You’ll see them packaged as ‘Zero Calorie’ noodles, fettuccine and more. Beyond the persuasive marketing and packaging, what are they actually? And how do they enable you to eat something that feels a lot like your favourite Carbonara or Pad Thai without your jeans feeling that little bit tighter the next day?
These noodles are high in glucomannan, a type of fibre that has notable health benefits. Glucomannan has even been shown to aid in weight loss in a number of well-regarded studies (which blew my mind).
How do they work? It’s not trickery or rocket science. These noodles fill you up with next to no calories, allowing you to enjoy what feels like a filling meal without the blood sugar response, bloating or lethargy you might feel after a big bowl of pasta.
The viscous fibre actually works like a prebiotic which is good for gut health. It nurtures the bacteria and supports your gut flora. What's even better is that your colon transforms this fibre into short-chain fatty acids, which can fight inflammation and boost your immune system alongside other benefits.
How does it help with weight loss? Glucomannan moves through your digestive system slowly which aids you in feeling fuller for longer and slows down nutrient absorption into the bloodstream, which means you end up eating less.
Glucomannan has actually shown to actively help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes and insulin resistance.
It also goes without saying that if you feel like you’ve just had an awesome bowl of pasta, you’re less likely to reach for sweet treats than if you’ve suffered your way through a salad that you didn’t really want!
Will you give them a go?
Comments